Catalan Christmas Drinks: What to Sip During the Festive Season

When it comes to Christmas in Catalonia, food often takes the spotlight—but let’s not forget about the drinks! Catalan holiday celebrations are filled with unique beverages that perfectly complement the festive dishes and chilly winter evenings. From sparkling cava to rich hot chocolate, here’s a guide to the drinks you can’t miss during the holiday season in Barcelona.

No Catalan celebration is complete without a glass of cava. This sparkling wine, often compared to champagne, is a staple during Christmas meals and New Year’s Eve toasts. Cava is produced primarily in the Penedès region, just outside Barcelona, and comes in a range of styles from dry (brut) to sweet (semisec). Its crisp, bubbly character pairs wonderfully with festive dishes like escudella and turró.

Pro Tip: Look for small-batch artisanal cavas to taste unique and high-quality variations.

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing like a warm glass of vi calent to keep the holiday spirit alive. This spiced red wine, infused with cinnamon, cloves, orange, and sugar, is a favorite at Christmas markets and festive gatherings. It’s Catalonia’s answer to mulled wine, offering a cozy, aromatic drink that pairs perfectly with strolling through holiday lights.

Pro Tip: Pair it with roasted chestnuts or neules for a truly local experience.

Catalonia takes hot chocolate to another level with its thick, rich, almost pudding-like consistency. Paired with crispy, sugar-dusted xurros (fried dough sticks), it’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for a chilly winter afternoon. This combination is a favorite among locals and visitors alike during Christmas shopping trips or post-market strolls.

Pro Tip: Dip your xurros generously into the hot chocolate for the ultimate indulgence.

For something truly unique, try cremat, a flaming rum-based drink that originated in coastal Catalonia. Traditionally made by mixing rum, sugar, lemon peel, and spices like cinnamon and coffee beans, the drink is set alight before being served. The flames caramelize the sugar, giving cremat its distinctive, rich flavor. It’s often associated with maritime traditions and festive gatherings.

Pro Tip: Enjoy cremat with a group—it’s traditionally served in large bowls to share.

Though not exclusive to Christmas, vermut (vermouth) takes on a festive role during the holiday season. Locals love sipping this fortified wine, often served over ice with a slice of orange and an olive, as a pre-lunch aperitif. It’s a social drink that pairs well with small bites like olives, cheese, or anchovies.

Pro Tip: Try a homemade version of vermut at a traditional Catalan bodega for an authentic experience.

Many Christmas markets, local bars, and bodegas across Barcelona offer these festive drinks during the holiday season. Whether you’re warming up with vi calent at a market, sipping cava during a Christmas dinner, or indulging in hot chocolate and xurros after a day of exploring, these beverages will make your holiday in Catalonia even more memorable.

Don’t Miss:

Join our Barcelona Christmas Bike Tour, where you’ll explore the city’s festive highlights and enjoy a stop to sample traditional Catalan Christmas food and drinks! For more about the festive foods that pair perfectly with these drinks, check out our post on Traditional Catalan Christmas Foods You Have to Try in Barcelona.

Catalonia’s Christmas drinks are more than just beverages—they’re a celebration of warmth, tradition, and togetherness. From the sparkling effervescence of cava to the cozy richness of hot chocolate, each drink tells a story of the region’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring the Christmas markets, dining with locals, or relaxing at a café, raise a glass to the magic of Catalonia this holiday season.